Agreement includes the deployment of submersible cage systems, marking a milestone for Smir.
Norwegian aquaculture technology provider Smir has entered into a comprehensive contract with Nova Sea for the delivery of technology and services to facilitate deep farming at one of Nova Sea’s sites in Norway’s Production Area 8.
“This contract is a significant achievement for Smir AS and represents a step forward for the entire Smir group,” said Øyvind Nymark, CEO of Smir AS, in a press release. “Deep farming and submersible cages are forward-looking innovations that address critical challenges in aquaculture. We are proud to collaborate with Nova Sea, which shares our vision for the future of sustainable seafood production.”
The collaboration builds on Smir’s partnership with global aquaculture supplier Badinotti Group, which has over two decades of experience delivering submersible cage solutions for high-energy environments with wave heights up to 15 meters. This project marks the first introduction of their joint solution to the Norwegian market, combining Badinotti’s expertise in cage systems with Smir’s technological and operational innovations for deep farming.
The contract includes retrofitting existing cages into submersible systems, deploying waterborne feeding technology, and upgrading feed barges. These efforts will be supported by Smir’s subsidiaries: Smir SET, responsible for feed system installations, and Kb, which will handle installation and diving services for the cages.
Focus on Fish Welfare and Sustainability
“At Nova Sea, fish welfare and biosecurity are top priorities,” said Bjørn Helge Hjartåker, Production Director at Nova Sea. “We are adopting submerged solutions to effectively combat sea lice and allow salmon to remain undisturbed throughout the sea phase. We chose Smir AS and Badinotti Group for their proven expertise in submersible cages and interdisciplinary aquaculture competence, and we look forward to working with them.”
The solution also emphasizes cost savings and sustainability by reusing existing cages, according to Nymark.
The contract value was not disclosed in the press release. However, the agreement underscores a growing trend in the aquaculture industry toward innovative technologies aimed at improving environmental and operational outcomes.
